Pope Francis made a surprise appearance in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday for the Jubilee of the Sick, despite still recovering from bilateral pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff drew inspiration from biblical stories to explore the spiritual dimensions of illness and healing.
In his homily, Pope Francis said that “the sickbed can become a ‘holy place’ of salvation and redemption.” He shared personal reflections on his own experience with illness, saying he feels “the finger of God” during his hospitalization. The pope encouraged health care workers to receive every patient as an opportunity to renew their sense of humanity.
Francis also highlighted the importance of accepting suffering and including those who are frail or in need. He warned that a society unable to accept its suffering members is cruel and inhuman. The pope urged prayers for all who suffer and for health care professionals, advocating for investment in necessary resources for care and research.
Pope Francis concluded his remarks with a plea for peace in conflict zones around the world, including Ukraine, Gaza, and other regions. As he recovers from his illness, the pope’s message of hope and redemption resonated with hundreds of faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square.
Source: https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/263201/pope-francis-calls-sickbed-a-holy-place-during-surprise-appearance-at-jubilee-of-the-sick